True North

True North golf course overview

True North is a private Jim Engh design located in the northwest corner of Lower Michigan. The layout is known for its dramatic elevation changes and signature bowl-shaped greens set within a mature forest. The course features wide fairways that often funnel toward the center, contrasting with deep, artistic bunkering.

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How to score better at True North

Play for the center of the green rather than attacking pins tucked near the steep slopes of the putting surfaces. Use the natural contours of the fairways and green surrounds to feed the ball toward your target. Managing distance on the significant uphill and downhill shots is essential for consistent ball striking.

Nearby courses include The Golf Club at Harbor Springs.

How True North should actually be played

Play for the center of the green rather than attacking pins tucked near the steep slopes of the putting surfaces. Use the natural contours of the fairways and green surrounds to feed the ball toward your target. Managing distance on the significant uphill and downhill shots is essential for consistent ball striking. This is the defining strategy for True North. Golfers who commit to this approach consistently score better here.

What makes True North tricky

Scoring opportunities are found on the par 5s if you can navigate the bunkers and take advantage of the generous landing areas. The greens act as the primary defense; being precise with approach shot proximity to the hole is more important than raw distance. A sharp short game is required to save par when missing the large, complex green complexes.

Who will enjoy True North

True North suits golfers who want to improve their scoring through better decision-making. Mid handicap players benefit most from playing conservatively, while lower handicap golfers can take advantage of scoring opportunities when they are clearly available.

Where most golfers lose shots at True North

The most common error is misjudging the wind and elevation on the high-ridged holes, leading to missed greens in penal bunkers. Over-aggressive putting on the tiered greens can quickly result in three-putts if you end up on the wrong level. Golfers often fail to account for how much the ball will roll after landing on the firm, fescue-lined fairways.

Scoring Zone strategy for True North

On a typical 400-yard par 4 at True North, the goal should be simple: two controlled shots. You don't need a perfect drive — you need a repeatable position that allows you to play your next shot with confidence.

True North rewards discipline and clear decision-making. Take at least one extra club on the steep uphill approach shots to ensure you reach the proper tier. Practice lag putting before the round to get a feel for the speed and the aggressive slopes found on most holes. Keep the ball below the hole whenever possible to avoid defensive putting on the quick surfaces.

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Location

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